18 year old Joseph Barnum pleaded not guilty to felony vandalism charges

Indio, Calif. - One of three former La Quinta High School students accused of putting glue in door locks at the school as a senior prank a few days before graduation pleaded not guilty to felony charges.

Joseph Alonzo Barnum, 18, of La Quinta, was arraigned at the Larson Justice Center in Indio on one count each of conspiracy, vandalism causing damage of more than $400 and cocaine possession.

Co-defendants Jose Requeno of Indio and Steven Jimenez of La Quinta, also 18, pleaded not guilty earlier this month to vandalizing property causing more than $400 damage and conspiracy.

All three defendants are due back in court on Aug. 25 for a felony settlement conference.

Sheriff's detectives also arrested a 17-year-old boy on suspicion ofconspiracy and vandalism, but it was unclear what charges, if any, he would face. The students carpooled to the campus soccer field, then walked to the school and put glue in the door locks, the criminal complaint alleges. A sheriff's sergeant said the June 2 prank caused thousands of dollars in damage.

Sherry Johnstone, assistant superintendent for personnel at Desert Sands Unified School District, said the accused students did not participate in graduation ceremonies, as ``walking in graduation is a privilege to be earned.''

Barnum, Requeno and Jimenez each posted a $10,000 bond.

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